SPRING 2022 ROUND-UP Paying the price of bad debt A third of small firms have been negatively impacted by poor payment practices in recent months, according to the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) ROUND-UP Its research shows that around one in three (30%) firms has seen the late payment of invoices increase over the past three months, with a further 8% experiencing other forms of poor payment. Only 6% of small businesses say that a change in payment terms has been agreed over that period. COVID-19 pandemic, but the public health crisis has exacerbated the problem. Latest government statistics show that 400,000 small businesses closed during last years COVID-19 lockdowns, and the FSB study suggests a similar number could be forced to close again this year because of the problem of late payments. As a result, around one in 10 (8%) says late payment is now threatening the viability of their business. For small businesses and the self-employed, cash is king, and they depend on cash flow for their very existence. For more on how to deal with late payers, or to try to prevent late payment in the first place, see Show me the money in this edition of TSBN. Poor payment practice was one of the most serious impediments to small business growth and survival even before the Credits: Karen Woolley, development manager, Federation of Small Businesses Image: iStock.com / Rawpixel Boost for business Hospitality businesses in England no longer need planning permission to erect marquees on their own land and councils no longer need permission to hold outdoor markets. The changes to permitted development rights which were introduced as a temporary measure to boost high streets and small businesses during national COVID-19 restrictions have been made permanent as of 11 January. ROUND-UP It means pubs, cafes and restaurants can install marquees and gazebos without planning permission, to make better use of their outside space all year round. Councils will also be able to hold street markets without having to submit a planning application, thereby attracting more people to high streets and town centres, and boosting the local economy. Historic visitor attractions, and hospitality businesses operating in listed buildings, also benefit, because they can now install a gazebo for 120 days in a 12-month period. This provides additional flexibility while minimising the impact on heritage sites. Specific restrictions apply, so businesses should check the detail of the legislation and seek further advice from local planning teams before buying marquees, gazebos or other outdoor structures. The changes go with the temporary extension (until 30 September 2022) to the streamlined process for pavement licensing, which will enable businesses to provide al fresco dining throughout the spring and summer. There is a possibility this pavement licensing process may also become permanent, but this will require further legislative changes. Businesses should keep an eye on how the governments hospitality strategy develops over the coming months. Credits: Frances Darling, head of business and consumer protection, Homes & Communities, Place Directorate, Shropshire Council Image: iStock.com / coldsnowstorm AWARE OF CRIME? REPORT IT ANONYMOUSLY TO TRADING STANDARDS The level playing field that nurtures and promotes economic growth and development for businesses, locally and nationally, is maintained by Trading Standards. It partly does this by offering advice and assistance to honest and legitimate traders who request guidance on legislation, and by assisting those traders who need a little help to become compliant. Where businesses choose to trade outside the law and ignore the advice and guidance given, Trading Standards tackles them by using appropriate enforcement action. A lack of willingness and cooperation to comply with trading law and any engagement in criminal activity undermines and harms legitimate trade. This, inevitably, leads to honest businesses being disadvantaged and having to compete against traders who offer inferior goods and services. To survive, the honest business may be forced to lower its standards or its quality of product, resulting in unsatisfied consumers. Left unchecked, this leads to a loss in consumer confidence, and has resulted in certain trade sectors being mistrusted. By working with Trading Standards, legitimate businesses that believe their sector is being damaged and undermined by unscrupulous traders can help focus and target Trading Standards resources, and reduce the harm being inflicted upon their profession. Those who believe their professions reputation is being damaged and undermined by illegitimate traders working outside the law can report them via the anonymous, automated hotline 0300 303 2636, or by using the online reporting system. Report foul play to create a level playing field for all. For further information please contact your local Trading Standards Service